Portugal is in mourning following the tragic loss of seven lives due to devastating wildfires that have ravaged the country’s west coast. The fires, which have burned over 121,000 hectares of land since September 14, have prompted the government to declare a National Day of Mourning and a state of calamity in the hardest-hit areas.
The wildfires began on September 14 and quickly spread, leading to a catastrophic situation that has overwhelmed firefighting resources. The fires have primarily affected the northern and central regions of Portugal, with significant damage reported in districts such as Aveiro, Porto, and Coimbra. The government has mobilized over 2,400 firefighters to combat the blazes, which have been exacerbated by hot and dry weather conditions.
In response to the crisis, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro declared a state of calamity on Tuesday evening. This declaration allows for the mobilization of additional firefighters and civil servants to assist in firefighting efforts. Montenegro emphasized the need for continued support and cooperation from international partners, stating, “We have to continue to give everything we have and ask for help from our partners and friends.”
